)
The former Real Madrid striker has reportedly fallen out with the Portuguese coach who feels he does not suit his tactical approach
Karim Benzema is already facing problems in Saudi Arabia after coach Nuno Espirito Santo informed the Al-Ittihad board that the tactical approach he employs does not align well with the playing characteristics of the former Real Madrid striker.
Benzema announced his departure from Real Madrid in June, ending a 14-year tenure marked by four La Liga triumphs and an impressive five UEFA Champions League victories.
The Frenchman went on to ink a contract with Al-Ittihad for a duration of two and a half years, reportedly valued at €600 million.
Benzema has made two appearances for Al-Ittihad this season and although he hasn't found the net himself, he did contribute an assist during a 3-0 triumph against Al-Raed.
However, a revelation from Saudi Arabian newspaper, Al-Sharq Al-Awsat - per Goal Arabia and SportBible - state Santo has notified the board that the Frenchman is not a suitable match for his playing style.
The ex-Tottenham Hotspur and Wolverhampton manager was also not an initiator of Benzema's acquisition, causing significant strain between the pair within the team's locker room.
Meanwhile, Goal has also reported that Benzema had expressed a desire for the captaincy at Al-Ittihad, which the Portuguese coach has declined to give him.
With the current unease in his present setting, some believe the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner could find himself facing the possibility of an unexpected move away or the coach could end up being the fall guy if the club decide to stick with their superstar striker.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)